Clinical Expertise

We treat common skin disorders such as acne, eczema, psoriasis, contact dermatitis, urticaria, warts, skin and soft tissue infections, pigmented lesions and adverse cutaneous drug reactions. 

The UCI Department of Dermatology is a tertiary referral center, attracting patients with many complex medical dermatologic conditions. Our faculty have the following areas of expertise and research:

• Inflammatory skin diseases (alopecia, atopic dermatitis, psoriasis)
• Autoimmune connective tissue disease (lupus erythematosus, dermatomyositis, morphea, lichen sclerosus, scleroderma) 
• Vasculitis
• Immunobullous disease (pemphigus)
• Medication-induced rashes (including chemotherapy- and immunotherapy-induced skin reactions)
• Pigmentary disorders (vitiligo, melasma, albinism)
• Oral and genital mucosal dermatoses, (lichen sclerosus, lichen planus, lichen simplex chronicus, hidradenitis suppurativa, Behçet’s disease, plasma cell vulvitis)
• Genetic skin diseases (e.g., dysplastic nevus syndrome)
• Cutaneous disorders with systemic manifestations
• Infectious diseases with dermatologic expression (e.g., HIV)
• Cutaneous lymphomas

Our department addresses skin cancer across the spectrum, from preventative measures to complex treatment protocols. We equip future dermatologists with expertise in cutting-edge early detection techniques like noninvasive light-based imaging for melanoma in situ. Additionally, our training covers advanced treatment modalities such as surgical excisions, electrodesiccation and curettage, and intralesional chemotherapy. In addition to melanoma clinics, we cater to diverse patient needs through specialized clinics, including a high-risk squamous cell carcinoma clinic for immunocompromised individuals and a program focused on aggressive tumors requiring multidisciplinary care.

Our faculty is deeply invested in skin cancer research. Ongoing clinical trials include noninvasive light-based imaging for the early detection of skin cancer (particularly melanoma in situ), daylight photodynamic therapy for the treatment of precancerous actinic keratoses, and novel laser-based treatments for skin cancer.

UCI Medical Center's Department of Dermatology houses Orange County's only dermatopathology laboratory, a valuable resource for both patient diagnosis and educational training in the pathology of the skin. 

With expertise in this field, the department offers diagnostic services for skin conditions. Our laboratory also supports both community physicians and UCI Medical Center's Pathology Department, as well as clinical and basic research initiatives.

The department fosters collaboration with the Beckman Laser Institute & Medical Clinic and UCI Health Dermatology Center. Through research and education, we equip future dermatologists with expertise in advanced laser and phototherapy techniques to address various skin conditions, such as vascular lesions, acne, rosacea, psoriasis, and skin cancers.

Our faculty fosters an environment that encourages the exploration of advanced aesthetic procedures. We offer training in cosmetic dermatology techniques such as skin rejuvenation, chemical peels, cryolipolysis, hair restoration, botulinum toxin and injectable fillers.